Residents call for curb to hotel expansion

A way must be found for the Roundabout Hotel at West Chiltington and nearby residents to live together, a recent planning meeting was told.

Horsham District Council’s south development control committee was considering plans for a lower ground floor conference room extension with roof terrace and balcony for the third time.

Councillor Philip Circus (CON Chanctonbury) said: “ The problem is that residents feel they cannot trust the Chapman Group Ltd, which is putting forward this proposal. Residents want conditions if at all possible to protect their privacy and safety on the road outside their homes.”

He added: “There has to be a line drawn that will enable the hotel to flourish and for residents to be happy with the situation.

“The development of this hotel has gone as far as it can in the circumstances.””

The hotel intends to use the extension for weddings as well as conferences. The Chapman Group has produced a plan to manage noise and control car parking.

Residents have raised serious concerns about any intensification of use, pointing out that Monkmead Lane is narrow, has no lighting, no pavements and has dangerous bends. It is inappropriate for any spillover parking.

West Chiltington Parish Council, in representations at the meeting, said a halt had to be called on development at the hotel.

“No allowances have been made for the fact the extended use could lead to overspilling into Monkmead Lane. To base the car park spaces on the assumptions of five people in every car visiting the hotel, is ludicrous.” it said.

Councillor Philip Circus said: Development of this hotel has to come to an end after this.”

Permission was granted subject to agreements to be drawn up by officers being met.